Africa Notes: An Update on U.S. Priorities in Africa - May 1993

U.S. policy toward Africa is undergoing substantial change. The need for new directions was already evident in the mid-1980s.

The end of the cold war and priority shifts set in motion by the Clinton administration have accelerated development of new approaches and priorities.As outlined by Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs George E. Moose at his confirmation hearing, the new administration's main goals for Africa include the growth of democracy and human rights, sustainable economic development, and environmental protection. Central to these goals are the complementary objectives of conflict resolution and peacekeeping, and the downsizing and professionalization of Africa's often fractious militaries. The Department of Defense (DoD) and the House Foreign Affairs Committee's Subcommittee on Africa have also focused attention on these aspects of U.S. policy, as evidenced in recent hearings held by the Subcommittee and a conflict resolution initiative by the full Committee.

James L. Woods